INS Sandhayak makes maiden port call to Malaysia to boost hydrographic coop

New Delhi, Jul 19: The Indian Navy’s indigenously built Survey Vessel Large (SVL), INS Sandhayak, arrived at Port Klang on its maiden port call from 16 to 19 July 2025, marking a significant step in India’s expanding regional engagement in hydrographic cooperation. Designed and constructed in India, INS Sandhayak is the first of the Sandhayak-class hydrographic survey ships and was commissioned in February 2024.

The vessel is equipped with advanced coastal and deep-water survey capabilities, oceanographic data collection systems, and has provisions for search and rescue operations. It is also fitted with an onboard helicopter and medical facilities, enabling it to undertake humanitarian assistance missions.

The ship’s visit to Malaysia highlights India’s commitment to strengthening regional maritime cooperation under the framework of the Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD) and the National Hydrographic Office. The deployment is aimed at enhancing institutional linkages and technical collaboration with Malaysian counterparts, particularly in the areas of survey technology and capacity building. During its stay at Port Klang, key activities included knowledge-sharing sessions, official engagements, and community outreach events, all designed to foster maritime goodwill and promote regional stability. The visit also highlighted India’s vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), reinforcing the country’s role in promoting collective maritime development in the Indo-Pacific.